Key factor influencing the ignition resistance of magnesium alloys at elevated temperatures

Magnesium alloys exhibit poor ignition resistance after the addition of elements whose solubility limit in the matrix is extremely low, although these elements can thermodynamically bring about the formation of an additional protective oxide layer by alloying. The solute concentration of the alloying elements dissolved in a matrix, in conjunction with conventionally used factors such as the Pilling-Bedworth ratio and the Gibbs free energy change for oxidation, should be considered as an important factor influencing the ignition resistance of magnesium. (C) 2011 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.